With travel apps and travel websites right at your fingertips, travel agents probably seem like an unnecessary service. However, this isn't exactly the case. Even if you're able to secure a great deal on a vacation on your own, there are a number of things a travel agent can do that might be hard, if not impossible, for you to accomplish by yourself.

Provide A Security Blanket

Emergency work obligations and illness are just two of the scenarios that could wreak havoc on your travel plans. When you work with a travel agent, you have an automatic security blanket to help ensure you don't lose the money you've invested. An agent can help you reschedule your vacation or get a refund if necessary.

Some airlines, hotels and third party services offer this protection; however, it often comes at a high cost and fees are assessed for each person in your party. With a travel agent, this service is already included and ready to be activated whenever you need it.

Take Out The Stress

Vacations are meant to be stress-free, but the planning phase can sometimes be the exact opposite. Determining which flight times are best for your schedule, planning excursions and researching safe hotels in the area are just some of the time-consuming tasks that come along with trip planning.

Travel agents are experts that can actually help plan every aspect of your trip, right down to creating a daily itinerary. Instead of spending countless hours researching, with an agent, all you have to do is pack your bags and enjoy your vacation.

Discounts

Sure, there are price drop alert services for airline flights and last minute deals on hotel stays, but on the average vacation, these amenities only make up a portion of the vacation costs. Vacations also come along with transportation, food and excursion costs. As industry members, travel agents are privy to discounts in these areas that often aren't made available to you when traveling without the assistance of an agent.

For example, the agent might have a discount available for a local shuttle service. If you plan to utilize a shuttle as your primary means of transportation while away, the money you save with the discounted service can really come in handy.

Vacations are meant to be memorable and enjoyable experiences. Don't overlook the role a travel agent can play in helping you accomplish each of these goals.